The reverse features the same lines as the obverse symbolising the athletics track, with the words ‘to commemorate Australian sporting achievement’ appearing in the raised rim of the medal. The reverse is also marked with the year ‘2000’.

The medal is suspended from a 32 mm ribbon by a connector piece and ring. The ribbon’s colours are Australia’s national sporting colours green and yellow.

The Prime Minister announced the creation of the Australian Sports Medal on 31 December 1998.

This commemorative medal was introduced to recognise Australian sporting achievements. The medal acknowledged a range of Australians who, in different ways, contributed to the nation’s sporting success. Recipients included former competitors, coaches, sports scientists, office holders, and people who maintain sporting facilities and services.

The Australian Sports Medal was formally established on 23 December 1999 by Letters Patent.

Most of the medals were presented to people following their nomination by the sports community. Peak sports bodies recognised or funded by the Australian Sports Commission were given quotas according to a formula based on the number of their registered competitors. All Australian parliamentarians could make nominations.

The medals were progressively awarded during the year 2000.

The Australian Sports Medal does not carry a post-nominal entitlement.

Knight/Dame of the Order of Australia (AK/AD) • / Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) • / Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) • / Member of the Order of Australia (AM) • / Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)